Not in 'interests of justice' to hear Zuma corruption appeal – ConCourt

7 October 2016

Cape Town – The Constitutional Court says it would not be in the interests of justice to hear the NPA's request for leave to appeal the reinstatement of corruption charges against President Jacob Zuma at this stage.

Court papers show an order dated September 28 dismissing a request for leave to appeal the High Court in Pretoria's April ruling, that was filed by National Director of Public Prosecutions Shaun Abrahams.

The court ruled that the 783 fraud, racketeering and corruption charges against Zuma should be reinstated, following a seven-year battle by the DA.

"The Constitutional Court has considered this application for leave to appeal," the order read.

"It has concluded that it is not in the interests of justice for this Court to hear the matter at this stage."

It made no order as to costs.

'Judgment stands'

Constitutional Law expert Marinus Wiechers told News24 that, from the ConCourt's point of view, the judicial avenue is closed down for the time being. The matter can only be reassessed on appeal if there are new facts.

"After so many years, and having been thrashed out for so long, it's almost impossible to have new facts in this case."

Wiechers also said the Constitutional Court may hear the case if the Supreme Court of Appeal rejects a similar request from the NPA for leave to appeal.

What this means for the case itself, Wiechers added, was that the judgment of the High Court in Pretoria stands.

DA federal executive chairperson James Selfe said on Friday that the application highlighted the "deliberate attempts" by the NPA and Zuma to do everything possible to delay the president having his day in court.

NPA spokesperson Luvuyo Mfaku told News24 on Friday that it was the first he heard of the order.

Presidency spokesperson Dr Bongani Ngqulunga was not immediately available for comment.

This article first appeared on News24, see here.